CHARLOTTE, N.C. (FOX 46 CHARLOTTE) - Ranson Middle School was placed on lockdown Thursday morning after a gun was found on campus, school officials said.

A student brought the gun onto campus on a bus, according to a letter sent to families by Principal Neodria Brown. The unloaded firearm was located inside a trash bin.

"Everybody was crying. A lot of people were crying and they were scared and a lot of people were laughing about it. I didn't like that either because they were posting it on snapchat and stuff," said one student.

"The firearm was never brought inside our school building and was retrieved from the trash bin by law enforcement without incident. This matter is under investigation by law enforcement," the letter stated.

Ranson Middle was placed on lockdown out of caution. The lockdown was lifted at 10:48 a.m. Thursday.

"I am not scared because I know we are safe. It just starts at home and our kids need to be taught about guns," said a mother.

Officials said the student will face disciplinary action. It's unclear if charges will be filed.

CMS added in an email that they have no plans to expand safety screenings into middle schools or elementary schools at this time.